My Brother Sam Is Dead

The war becomes real for Tim. He begins hearing stories about people who have been shot or who have died in skirmishes. Nonetheless, the war is confusing, and he still does not understand who is winning. Reports often contradict each other.

One day, a Mr. Heron comes to the Tavern with Tom Warrups. Tim wants to determine which side everyone is on—he knows that his father is against the war, and he thinks that Mr. Heron is a Tory, but he cannot figure out Tom. When the talk turns to Sam, Mr. Heron suggests that he might be able to find out where Sam is. He then asks Father if Tim will be available to take letters to Fairfield. Father adamantly says that Tim cannot. Mr. Heron seems offended and suggests that Father is not making sacrifices like the rest of the people of Redding. Father grows angry and says, “I’ve made a sacrifice, Mr. Heron, I’ve lost a son. You know I have no love for the Rebels, but this is one war I’m not going to fight” (9).

After Mr. Heron leaves, Tim protests to his father that he could deliver the business letters, but Father tells him that it is spy work.